Chelsea at Arsenal player ratings: First major preseason tune-up

Dujon Sterling (Right centerback): 7.5/10

Dujon Sterling did not let an early mistake that led to a free kick crush his spirits. The versatile defender stepped in excellently again at right centerback. The most memorable action Sterling had was a last ditch tackle preventing Nicolas Pepe from getting one-on-one with Kepa Arrizabalaga. The 21-year-old is one to watch in the coming days as Tuchel figures out his future. Sterling was thought to have been in line to take over as the back-up right wingback behind Reece James, but he hasn’t played in that position yet this preseason. His performances may be enough to keep him around and in contention for a back-up role somewhere on the pitch though.

Malang Sarr (Left centerback): 7/10

Malang Sarr didn’t do much to get his name mentioned, which is probably best case scenario for a central defender. His immediate future remains perhaps the biggest question mark of anybody in the team. Chelsea may need a No. 2 to play left centerback, and Sarr could be that guy, there is just an uncertainty about whether or not he’s ready to take that next step. A start against Spurs could go a long way in answering this question.

Davide Zappacosta (Right wingback): 7.5/10

Davide Zappacosta actually played quite well. He’s one of the few substitutes in this match who doesn’t have a real future in SW6, so these preseason appearances are essentially showcases for interested parties. The list of suitors will have gone up after seeing what Zappacosta can do in the attacking third. He sat down some defenders with vicious cutbacks and sent some dangerous balls into the box. Good—not great—outing from the Italian.

Danny Drinkwater (Central midfielder): 5/10

Suffice it to say, Danny Drinkwater’s eye-opening performance at Bournemouth was a one-off. He looked out of place as perhaps the Blues’ worst performer on the day, misplacing passes left and right. No offense to Drinkwater, as I believe there is still a quality footballer deep down in there somewhere, but the sooner Chelsea gets rid of the Englishman the better.

Tammy Abraham (Striker): 8/10

Abraham scored a winner at the Emirates for a second time in his career on Sunday. He continued to get into good positions, despite questionable decision making at times. If nothing else, the last two appearances from Abraham have gone a long way in showing Tuchel that the Blues can get a lot of chances with the homegrown striker leading the line. Justice for Abraham.